We went from being an independent to one of the biggest and best labels in town, and in the merger we lost all identity, ... We were the little dog that barked loud (and) grew up to be a big dog, and when we merged we were powerless.

We turned what is virtually a glorified independent label into one of the powerhouse labels in the town.

None of the Nashville labels think I'm going to make it. But I feel very confident about my new label, because I'm signed as the first act. And as long as I continue to sell records, the label is going to be outstanding.

We're going to be an independent, ... but smell, walk, talk, look and record like a major.

I was raised in bars. My grandmother had one, and when I was 12 years old I'd go stay with her and that's where I got to watch her band play-she had a seven- or eight-piece band, and I would sit in the kitchen and peek through the door. I was kind of a 12-year-old bottle washer.

I really think this town is ready to embrace this team like they did the one in '86. It's early, but if they keep this going, it's going to be a special season. New Yorkers know when guys are out there busting their butts and playing good baseball. They aren't guys looking to hit the three-run homer in the bottom of the ninth to get the headline.